Definition

1. Noun:
   • A close emotional bond between men; the feeling that men should treat each other as brothers: This refers to the quality or state of having a strong, supportive, and familial connection, often based on shared experiences, values, or goals.
   • An association, society, or community of people linked by a common interest, profession, or belief: This refers to an organized group of individuals united by a shared purpose, such as a religious order, a labor union, or a professional guild.
   • The relationship between brothers; the state of being a brother: This is the literal familial connection between male siblings.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Emotional Bond):

  • There was a strong sense of brotherhood among the soldiers who had served together.
  • The team's success was built on trust and brotherhood.

• Noun (Association or Society):

  • He was a member of a secret brotherhood dedicated to preserving ancient knowledge.
  • The trade brotherhood negotiated a new contract with the company.

• Noun (Familial Relationship):

  • The bond of brotherhood between the twins was unbreakable.

Advanced Usage

• "In brotherhood": Acting with or characterized by the spirit of brotherhood.

  • The community lived in peace and brotherhood.

• "A brotherhood of...": Used to describe a group united by a specific commonality.

  • They formed a brotherhood of artists supporting each other's work.

Variants and Related Words

• Brotherly (adj): Of, relating to, or characteristic of a brother or brothers; showing kindness and affection like a brother.

  • He offered brotherly advice to the new student.

• Brother (n): The core word from which "brotherhood" is derived, meaning a male sibling or a man in a close, supportive relationship.

Synonyms

• Fraternity: A group of people sharing a common profession or interests; brotherhood.
• Fellowship: Friendly association, especially with people who share one's interests.
• Comradeship: The company and friendship of others with common aims.

Related Phrases

• Band of brothers: A closely united group of men (often used in a military or loyal context).
  • The veterans remained a loyal band of brothers long after the war.

Related Idioms

• Brotherhood of man: The idea that all human beings are linked together as brothers and should treat each other with kindness and respect.
  • The charity's mission is based on the principle of the brotherhood of man.

Noun

1. an organization of employees formed to bargain with the employer
   • you have to join the union in order to get a job
2. the feeling that men should treat one another like brothers
3. people engaged in a particular occupation
   • the medical fraternity
4. the kinship relation between a male offspring and the siblings